How to Prep Your Home Generator for Winter Storms in Central Virginia
Ice storms and heavy, wet snow are a big reason Central Virginia homes lose power in the winter. When ice builds up on trees and power lines, outages can last hours or even days. If you have a home standby generator, now is the time to make sure it will start when you need it, not after the lights go out.
Here's a simple checklist we recommend to our customers in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Spotsylvania and the surrounding area before winter sets in.
1. Check that your generator is running its weekly self-test
Most standby generators start themselves on a regular schedule, often once a week, to keep the engine and battery in good shape. If you haven't heard yours run in a while, or the status light shows a warning, that's a sign something needs attention. Many newer units also send alerts to a phone app, so check that the app is still connected.
2. Keep up with routine maintenance
A standby generator is an engine, and like any engine it needs regular care. Follow your manufacturer's maintenance schedule, which typically includes:
Changing the oil and oil filter
Replacing the air filter and spark plugs
Testing the battery, which is one of the most common reasons a generator fails to start
Inspecting wiring, connections and the transfer switch
If it's been more than a year since your last service, schedule it before the cold weather arrives. Service calls fill up quickly once a storm is in the forecast.
3. Make sure your fuel supply is ready
If your generator runs on propane, check your tank level and schedule a refill before winter. Propane deliveries can be delayed during and after a storm, and a long outage can use more fuel than you might expect. If your generator runs on natural gas, make sure the gas meter and supply line are clear and accessible.
4. Clear the area around the unit
Your generator needs open space around it to pull in air and push out exhaust. Rake away fallen leaves, trim back shrubs, and keep snow and ice from piling up around the unit after a storm. Never stack firewood, trash cans or anything else against it.
5. Test your carbon monoxide detectors
Any fuel-burning equipment produces carbon monoxide, so working CO detectors are a must, especially in winter when windows stay closed. Test them and replace the batteries now. If you also own a portable generator, never run it inside your home, garage, basement or near open windows, even with the garage door open.
Don't have a standby generator yet?
A whole-home standby generator turns on automatically within seconds of an outage, so your heat, well pump, refrigerator and lights keep running whether you're home or not. Getting one installed takes planning, including sizing, permits and fuel hookup, so it's best to start the process well before you need it.
Davis Electric is a Generac-certified installer serving Fredericksburg and Central Virginia. Whether you need a new generator installed or your current one serviced before winter, we're here to help. Learn more about our generator installation services.
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